2nd Annual Autism Speaks Fall Classic

On Monday, September 26, 2011, Autism Speaks celebrated its 2nd Annual Autism Speaks Fall Classic at the illustrious Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ. Joined by Title Sponsor ShopRite and Tournament Sponsor GTS-Welco, we hosted an exciting afternoon golf tournament and evening reception that raised over $268,000 for Autism Speaks’ research and advocacy initiatives! The tournament kicked off with a shotgun start on Baltusrol’s famed lower course and featured several contests, including the US Bancorp Million-Dollar Shootout, prizes distributed for the longest drive and the Bachman Putting Contest where qualifiers could compete to win a $10,000 prize.

The day wrapped up with evening cocktails, and a silent and live auction which offered guests an opportunity to help fund Autism Speaks’ initiatives for adults with autism. Honorary Co-chair and Autism Speaks Co-founder Bob Wright showed a highlight video from the second annual “Light It Up Blue” initiative on World Autism Awareness Day, on April 2. He also honored longtime Autism Speaks supporter Joe Kernan, host of the CNBC’s popular morning show “Squawk Box.” Event Co-chair and President of the Bachman Company Scott Carpenter welcomed another honoree, fourth grader Zachary Brooks, a tireless advocate for Autism Speaks whose twin brother, Jack, is affected by autism. Carpenter also introduced a special “thank you” video message on behalf of his fellow Co-chairs: his wife Suzie, John and Nico Sumas of ShopRite, Peter and Heather Kapsimalis, and Anne and Dave St. Clair. The video summed up why it’s so important to help raise awareness and funds for Autism Speaks, and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in making the Fall Classic such a special day.